Mom Reads to Baby Since Day 1, Can't Cope With What Happens One Year Later

A Gen Z mom has shown what happens when books are favored over screen time for babies.

In a viral Instagram video shared to @sophia.s.playroom, the 14-month-old is peacefully playing in her room, surrounded by books and "reading" them in baby babble.

Klaudia Manska, 26, told Newsweek: "From the very beginning, I decided not to give Sophia any screen time for the first two years, so I wanted to replace it with something meaningful—and books felt like the perfect choice."

The text layered over the video (which has 1.6 million views) states that Manska has been reading to her since "day one," spending around 10–15 minutes reading before bed and taking books everywhere they go.

An extract from the caption says: "Now? She spends 20–40 minutes reading on her own before a nap, often choosing books over toys."

The stay-at-home mom, who lives in Utah, described her toddler as a "little bookworm."

"She loves to 'read' and make animal sounds when she sees them in books," she said.

Her favorite book changes frequently, but when she takes a liking to one, Manska can find herself reading it at least 30 times in just a few days.

Why Reading to Babies Matters

According to the Pew Research Center, parents frequently read to their children, with younger children being read to more often than older ones. Ana Aznar, a parenting expert, told Newsweek about the top reasons why reading to babies is beneficial.

"First, when we read to a baby, we are usually holding them, stroking them, keeping them in close contact, and giving them our undivided attention. This strengthens our bond with the baby.

"Second, when we read to a baby, we are helping them develop their language skills by learning new words, copying sounds, and pointing at pictures.

"Finally, we are giving our baby the message that reading is an important activity, and hopefully, they will develop a passion for reading. This increases the chances of them doing well in school. It is never too early to start reading to a baby!"

'Books Are an Amazing Tool'

Manska told Newsweek that introducing books early on was important to her as it not only helps children learn, but she also recalls her mother doing the same.

She said: "One of our first goals was to teach her independence, so we introduced quiet time, and books became a big part of that. We noticed they sparked her curiosity—she loves discovering new things!

"Some books have even taught her cause and effect, especially the ones with moving parts. She's also obsessed with animals and has already learned so many animal sounds from books.

"I think books are an amazing tool that many people don't fully appreciate."

Instagram Reacts

Manska has received a sea of support online along with over 53,600 likes.

One user praised: "Great parenting. Curiosity is the cornerstone of learning."

"Our little girl is the same and it makes me so happy to see her enjoying books with us and on her own," shared another.

However, not all children develop an interest in reading. One mom shared her experience: "Then there's my son who bites and eats the corners off his books if I let him have them."

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